Craving a dish that easy to whip up and absolutely delicious?
Ever had green beans so delightful you find yourself munching on them straight from the pan? Simple Green Beans are here to save the day! Packed with flavor, these vibrant veggies transform any meal into a colorful feast without breaking a sweat. Plus, they’re quick, require minimal cleanup, and are perfect for busy weeknights or even for holiday gatherings. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Why make this recipe
Still wondering if you should give these green beans a shot? Here’s why you’ll fall in love:
- Super easy cleanup: One pan, one love. No messy dishes lying around to ruin your evening.
- Budget-friendly: These ingredients won’t send your wallet on a diet. Green beans are affordable and packed with nutrition — a win-win!
- Family-approved: Who doesn’t love a veggie that even the pickiest eater can’t resist? Get those little ones crunching on something healthy without the fuss.
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff—just these basics!
- Green beans
- Olive oil
- Garlic (minced)
- Salt
- Black pepper
Directions
Making these Simple Green Beans is as easy as 1-2-3 (or, you know, 6):
- Trim the ends of the green beans.
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Toss in the green beans and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until tender.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
How to make Simple Green Beans (Overview)
Let’s break this down. Start by trimming those green beans. You want them looking sharp and ready for action! Heat up that olive oil, then sauté the garlic until it’s aromatic. Don’t skip this step; burnt garlic is not a flavor profile you want to explore.
Next, add the green beans to the party! Stir them occasionally as they cook to get that even tenderness. Once they’re bright green and fabulously vibrant, season them up with salt and pepper. It’s that easy—seriously!
How to serve Simple Green Beans
These Simple Green Beans aren’t just pretty—they’re versatile too! Serve them alongside:
- A juicy grilled chicken
- Over a fluffy bed of rice
- Or toss them into a salad for that satisfying crunch!
The combination of that bright green color, freshly sautéed garlic aroma, and satisfying crunch will have everyone at the table begging for seconds (or thirds).
How to store Simple Green Beans
Got leftovers? No worries! You can keep these beauties in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just pop them in an airtight container. Reheating is a cinch—microwave them for a quick warm-up or toss them back in a pan for that just-cooked freshness.
Tips to make Simple Green Beans
Ready to up your green bean game? Here are some nifty tips:
- Blanch the beans beforehand for an even crisper texture.
- If you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of lemon zest adds a nice zing!
- Try using ghee instead of olive oil for a richer flavor.
- A dash of red pepper flakes can jazz things up if you like a little heat.
- Don’t hesitate to add other spices like Italian herbs for a different twist.
Variation
Want to mix things up? Here are some easy tweaks:
- Add nuts: Toss in some sliced almonds or walnuts for extra crunch.
- Make it vegan: This recipe is already plant-based! You’re good to go.
- Go cheesy: A sprinkle of parmesan at the end turns this into comfort food central.
FAQs
How can I make these green beans ahead of time?
Prep the beans ahead by trimming them, and store them in the fridge. Sauté the day of serving for the freshest taste!
Can I freeze cooked green beans?
Yes! Cooked green beans can freeze for up to 3 months. Just let them cool, then store in a sealed bag.
What can I substitute for garlic?
Feel free to use garlic powder or skip it altogether if you’re not a fan. Your beans will still taste fabulous!
Ready to enjoy the easiest green beans you’ll ever make? 📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Simple Green Beans
Ingredients
Method
- Trim the ends of the green beans.
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Toss in the green beans and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until tender.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve warm and enjoy!